Putin Says Ukraine Conflict Nearing End, Thanks U.S. for Talks Facilitation

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday the Ukraine conflict was 'coming to an end' and thanked the United States for helping facilitate talks, though he stressed the issue remains one for Russia and Ukraine alone to resolve. 'We are grateful to the US for facilitating talks, but it's only a matter for Russia and Ukraine,' Putin told reporters.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had announced a proposed three-day ceasefire from May 9 to 11, coinciding with Russia's Victory Day, calling for a halt to 'all kinetic activity.' Putin confirmed Russia is awaiting a response from Ukraine on a large-scale prisoner-of-war exchange outlined under the initiative, adding that no proposals had been received from Kyiv so far.

Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said the continuation of any ceasefire depends on both Russia and Ukraine, calling Trump's hope for an extension 'unfounded' while acknowledging his active involvement. Russian and Ukrainian agencies are currently compiling prisoner lists, with Moscow claiming it had already submitted its list prior to the ceasefire announcement but received no reply from Kyiv.

Ushakov said the exchange process could move quickly if both sides reach agreement, noting that coordination is ongoing through official channels. The Russian side expects Kyiv to accelerate its response, potentially due to pressure from Trump's diplomatic intervention.